Hoofin’ for Health participants Corey Crocker (from left), Jennifer Rose, deputy mayor George Baker and Colleen Dowe are practicing for the upcoming Hoofin’ for Health event. Baker got a little competitive during the practice, play-pushing the other runners out of the way

AMHERST – Keeping fit in Spring and Summer is usually easier. The warm weather is perfect for getting outside for a run or jog with your friends and family. When the cold air hits, everyone usually heads inside, throwing on a few extra layers to bear through the cold.

But keeping everyone physically active is just what the Hoofin’ for Health event is looking to do once again this year during the Santa Clause Parade.

“It was an event created two years ago,” said Corey Crocker, the physical activity coordinator for the town of Amherst. “It’s a way for different groups in our community to come out and be active.”

The idea behind the event is to get as many people as possible out and participating. The runners are the first float in the parade.

“They see us and then everyone follows,” said Crocker.

The run (or walk) is the length of the parade route, 2.7 kilometers. Along the route, there will be fitness stops with different activities for everyone to join in on.

“Our group will be active doing Zumba, and Power Pump,” he said. “The people watching the parade usually get active (with us) so it’s a feel good story and all about promoting physical activity. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can’t be active.”

In the past two years the event has been held alongside the parade, deputy mayor George Baker said it has been well received.

“It’s great for the parade,” said Baker. “The people seem to really love it.”

“The people where we’re stopping tend to join in, especially Zumba,” said Colleen Dowe, who is helping plan the event.

Those interested in participating do not need to be part of an association. To become apart of the event, contact Corey Crocker at 667-6503, or Colleene Dowe at 667-3319, or Laura Coleman at 667-9112. The runners will meet at the Amherst Town Square Mall by the Dollar Store at 5:15 p.m. for registration. The parade, on Nov. 24, begins at 6 p.m. All those looking to join in on the run are asked to wear something red or festive for the occasion.

Hoofin’ for Health participants Corey Crocker (from left), Jennifer Rose, deputy mayor George Baker and Colleen Dowe are practicing for the upcoming Hoofin’ for Health event. Baker got a little competitive during the practice, play-pushing the other runners out of the way